Tottenham block Real Madrid signing of key defender

Tottenham Hotspur have blocked a potential transfer of defender Destiny Udogie to Real Madrid.

Udogie, 21, has been a consistent starter for Tottenham this season, making 25 Premier League appearances. The club has valued him highly in their defensive plans.

Real Madrid had identified Udogie as a priority target to strengthen their right-back options. Carlo Ancelotti’s side sought a long-term solution under pressure from injuries and squad rotation.

Tottenham’s stance follows recent contract talks with Udogie, who has one year remaining on his current deal. The north London club has made it clear Udogie remains non-transferable.

Udogie joined Tottenham in August 2022 from Udinese for a reported fee of £25 million. He has since made 78 competitive appearances, scoring 3 goals.

Ancelotti’s pursuit now shifts to alternative targets as the January window approaches.